On the occasion of World Consumer Rights Day, we must highlight the increasingly difficult position of consumers in Montenegro. It is evident that their rights are being undermined at all levels, and the laws designed to protect them are systematically ignored. The situation in the consumer protection sector can be described as alarming, with consumers—who are the backbone of any society and economic system—rightfully asking: “What does the future hold for us?” said Jovo Rabrenović, a national expert in consumer protection.
Although Montenegro has a relatively strong legal framework for consumer protection, Rabrenović added, its implementation faces serious challenges.
“Consumer rights are formally regulated by law, but their enforcement in practice is far from satisfactory. Consumers are exposed to a drastic decline in their standard of living, record-high inflation, unstable and unpredictable prices of basic products and services, and constant new burdens imposed by traders and public institutions. Particularly concerning are issues such as: Non-compliance with consumer rights by traders, distributors, and public service providers such as Electric Power Company, water utilities, telecommunications, and cable operators; the slow pace of courts in resolving consumer disputes, making it harder for consumers to access justice; the lack of alternative dispute resolution mechanisms, further discouraging consumers; and the absence of consumer advisory services, despite their establishment being mandated since 2016,” Rabrenović stated.
In addition to the aforementioned problems, Rabrenović emphasized concerns regarding the failure to respect product conformity and guarantees.
“Consumers often have difficulty exercising their rights concerning warranties, particularly when purchasing technical devices like mobile phones, white goods, and computer equipment. Inadequate consumer information and education: Many citizens are not sufficiently informed about their rights and obligations, making them more susceptible to abuse and hindering their ability to secure protection. The lack of efficient mechanisms for rapid dispute resolution: The length of legal proceedings discourages consumers from asserting their rights, highlighting the need for faster and more effective protection mechanisms. Inadequate control over product safety and quality: There are frequent complaints about poor product quality, unsanitary conditions in stores, improper storage, and products past their expiration date, which jeopardizes consumer health and safety,” Rabrenović explained.
These issues further underline the urgent need to improve the consumer protection system in Montenegro.
“The state has an obligation and responsibility to act immediately. It is necessary to establish efficient mechanisms such as a national consumer advisory service and an ombudsman for consumer rights, which is already common practice in European Union countries. Furthermore, stricter enforcement of laws is required, judicial processes regarding consumer rights must be expedited, and consumers must be protected from unfair practices. Consumers need to realize their power and key role in the economic system. They must be determined, organized, and ready to assert their rights. After all, traders depend on consumers, not the other way around,” he said.
He called on citizens, organizations, and institutions to join efforts to ensure that consumer rights are not just words on paper but a standard that guarantees a dignified and secure life for every citizen of Montenegro.
“Consumer protection is not just a matter of rights; it is also a matter of justice and societal development as a whole,” Rabrenović concluded.
